National parks in SW Mo. reopen as shutdown ends

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — National parks and battlefields in southwest Missouri are back in business.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield near Springfield and the Buffalo National River all reopened Thursday morning after the partial government shutdown ended. They had been closed since the shutdown began 16 days ago.

All concessionaires at the park land on the Jacks Fork and Current rivers have resumed operation.

The Springfield News-Leader reports (http://sgfnow.co/1hZCjxR ) the Wilson’s Creek Foundation’s 8K Bloody Hill race and run will take place Saturday.

And at the Buffalo National River, spokesman Caven Clark said the rangers removed barriers and unlocked gates early Thursday along the 135-mile length of the national park. Concessionaires also were open for business.